Interstate closures coming; data center moratorium proposed

Interstate closures coming; data center moratorium proposed

News ClipNashville Banner·TN·10/7/2026

The Tennessee Democratic Party called for a statewide moratorium on hyperscale data centers until regulations protecting energy supplies and natural resources are established. The call came as Memphis considered a one-year moratorium, following temporary pauses in Knox County and Nashville.

moratoriumoppositiongovernmentelectricityenvironmental
Gov: Tennessee Democratic Party, Memphis City Council, Knox County, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County

The Tennessee Democratic Party urged Tennessee to halt hyperscale data center development statewide until lawmakers adopt safeguards for energy supplies, natural resources and residents’ utility costs. Party Chair Rachel Campbell said rapid technological development should not come at the expense of working families or the environment.

The proposal came as the Memphis City Council prepared to vote on a one-year moratorium on new data centers. Knox County and Nashville had already adopted temporary moratoria during the summer, reflecting growing concern about the infrastructure and resource demands of large facilities.